Addiction, also known as substance use disorder (SUD), is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), as a chronic, relapsing neurological disorder. It is characterized by the persistent, compulsive, and uncontrolled use of a drug despite harmful consequences. An individual struggling with addiction will prioritize satisfying his or her substance cravings above all else, which can wreak havoc in all areas of his or her life. There is a myriad of different pharmacological and therapeutic approaches when it comes to treating substance use disorder. The barriers to addiction treatment progress are wide-ranging and diverse. Some of the common unfounded complaints about addiction treatment and why they are irrelevant include the following:
- Addiction is inevitable: While there is no single way to prevent addiction experts assert that education, strengthened support systems, and greater awareness of the factors that affect substance misuse can mitigate the risks.
- Addiction is a choice and treatment should be carried out accordingly: The stigma associated with addiction lingers. In the not so distant past, individuals struggling with substance abuse were viewed as weak, thoughtless people that lacked self-control and often relied on the use of poor judgment. However, addiction is now accurately recognized as a complex mental health condition. The development of addiction is attributed to a confluence of factors such as environmental risk factors, genetic risk factors, psychological risk factors, socioeconomic risk factors, and more.
- The amount of money spent on addiction treatment services is directly correlated to one’s recovery outcome: There are different options, from luxury treatment centers to modest rehab facilities and everywhere in-between, when it comes to treatment for substance abuse and/ or addiction. The purpose of an individual attending an addiction treatment program is to learn a variety of mental health coping mechanisms and useful tools to lay the foundation for leading a life without drugs or alcohol. While the environment where this healing takes place may play a role in one’s continued success, the notion that it must be done in a luxury environment and/ or cost a small fortune is erroneous. There are many highly rated rehab programs that are cost-effective and provide residents with unparalleled individualized support throughout the entire treatment process. The amount of money spent on addiction treatment services has no bearing on its efficacy.
- Treatment can be accomplished with a one-size fits all approach: The recovery process from substance abuse and/ or addiction is entirely personal, and it will be directly informed by one’s personality, mental health, and emotional needs. There is no universal treatment method that proves successful for every person struggling with substance abuse and/ or addiction.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration estimates that 15.4% of all adult Americans struggle with a substance use disorder each year, which is equal to nearly 39 million people.
For Information and Support
If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one regarding substance abuse and/ or addiction, we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. If left untreated, substance abuse can result in long lasting and potentially life-threatening consequences. Keep in mind: you are not alone! There is an entire network of professionals that are available to help and support you and your loved one throughout the recovery process. The earlier you seek support, the sooner your loved one can return to a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life.
Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions regarding our specific program at Haven House Addiction Treatment and/ or general substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment related information. Our highly trained staff is readily available to discuss how we might best be able to help you and your loved one. We can be reached by phone at 424-258-6792. You are also welcomed to contact anytime us via email at admissions@hhtxc.com
